Abby Shin

Getting involved is easier than you think, all you have to do is ask.

I recently joined my local Green Party of Ontario (GPO) constituency group and other local environmental activists to help implement the GPO’s fight against Doug Ford’s recently passed Bill 5. The GPO is enlisting its voters and other related groups across the GTA to host events that bring attention to the cause and help collect petition signatures for Mike Schreiner to present to the Legislature this November!

I wanted to get involved, but could not attend their kickstart meeting on July 8th. So, I simply filled out this form asking how I could contribute! From there I was sent this Google form and introduced to the organizers in my neighbourhood, and I have been able to volunteer at rallies and fun events, meet other community groups, and spread the word about Bill 5. You should do this too!

Over the years I have come to learn about the importance of political activism. I used to be intimidated to participate, worried that I didn’t know enough or couldn’t contribute enough. However, as I became more involved in local groups and politics, I realized that the desire to participate is all you need. Almost all causes will welcome you with open arms, and you’ll learn so much along the way!

As citizens, it is our duty to stick up to our politicians when they are misrepresenting our interests. This is especially true today, when we see the priorities of corporations and the uber-wealthy often overshadowing our own. It can be scary to realize that your government is failing to protect you (and the environment which you rely on), but it will make you feel much better when you surround yourself with activists that share your values and want to fight for what you all think is right!

I realize that the Green Party may not directly align with everyone’s political beliefs, but I found that this was the best way I could access on-the-ground action. You can also participate in the GPO’s fight through other local environmental groups. In my riding, for example, folks from Enviro Defence’s Stop Highway 413 group, Seniors for Climate Action Now (SCAN), Toronto East Residents for Renewable Energy (TERRE), have been participating.

If you are still apprehensive to attend events or do not have the time, take 10 minutes sign these!

• The GPO’s petition that they will be presenting to the Legislature: print it out here and send to Green Party of Ontario, PO Box 1132, Station F, Toronto ON M4Y 2T8
• The GPO’s pre-written letter to Doug Ford urging him to reverse Bill 5
• The David Suzuki Foundation’s pre-written letter to Ford, your MMP, and City Councillor to demand Bill 5 be repealed
• WWF Canada’s pre-written letter to your local politicians against Bill 5

If you want to get involved in other GPO volunteering opportunities, fill out this form.